Setting Free the Bears (1968)

I keep finding that I enjoy the later John Irving novels more than the earlier ones. ( )

If you are a fan of John Irving's work, it may be worthwhile to read this book, his first novel. It contains some of the themes which will return a lot in his later books, but I actually like that they are a bit less prominent here. Because of this, Setting Free the Bears is not a typical Irving book and therefore a nice diversion from his later books. ( )

I first read this book more than 25 years ago,so I decided to give it another read when I was clearing out my cupboard and found it buried at the bottom.This book has such a terrific youthful energy(I think it's Irving's first)and is like a time capsule ,firstly of the free spirited 60's and then of the foreboding 30's and war years in Austria.Siggy and Graff's high spirited youthful adventures on their motorbike seem so innocent compared to the happenings of Siggy's parents before and during the war.I enjoyed this book more than I thought I would,it's freerolling and a great history lesson as well. ( )

langatmig und eintönig: Ich habe mich auf diese Buch gefreut. Letztlich habe ich aber nach ca. 3/4 aufgehört zu lesen. Es war einfach zu langatmig, mit Unwesentlichem hält sich der Autor seitenlang auf, Essentielles wird nicht erläutert. Für mich ein schreckliches Buch. ( )

Irving's writing style is evident here in his first novel, although the theme of the lost children of the 1960s is not unique at all. It would have been decidedly more unique if more time was devoted to Siggy's story and less to Gaff's. Gaff is a typical character, whereas Siggy is not. It is an ambitious first novel, but not an amazing read.

For my extended review, check out my blog: http://wp.me/pp7vL-36 ( )